Oral Cancer Survival Rates

When you or a loved one is diagnosed with any form of cancer, the question of survival rate often comes up. A survival rate is something that is not absolute, but is mainly a gathering of statistics based on the results of past patients with the same types and progression of cancer upon diagnosis. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Cancer survival rates or survival statistics tell you the percentage of people who survive a certain type of cancer for a specific amount of time.” The survival rate uses a 5-year scope, meaning that after 5-years it will tell you the percentage of patients that are living.

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, “60% of those with oral cancer survive over 5 years.” Since 1965 the survival rate has been increasing, due to more awareness and earlier detection. Below is a table that was provided by NIDCR regarding trends in survival based on race, gender, and race.